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4478

7 days / 6 nights

Period of Operation : March to November

Andros, Cyclades

Min Participants : 4

Max People : 7

Tour Description

Andros is the most northern island of the Cycladic isles. The islands of Kea, Kythnos, Serifos and Sifnos can be seen as a natural continuation in the sea of the peninsula of Attika; in the same way, the nearby islands of Andros, Tinos and Mykonos can be seen as the foothills of the mountain ridge of the island of Evia. Andros is mountainous and criss-crossed with a number of mountain ridges. Between the ridges there are deep valleys and sometimes steep gorges

Hiking in Andros can be very rewarding as the plethora of springs creates an amazing scenery of green valleys and waterfalls, which make it stand out comparing to the other Cycladic Islands. A large number of hikes, many of which are still paved in the traditional manner, cover the coastline and the mountains. They travel over stone bridges, meet old watermills, lead to traditional villages and small churches typical of the Greek countryside, picturesque monasteries and secluded beaches.

Join us to this walking adventure holiday. Hiking on the ancient paths and trails we will explore the hidden beauties of the island, the astonishing nature with mountainous and coastal landscapes revealing abandoned terraces, old stone bridges, steep rocky cliffs, springs and small gorges… We will discover the very promising flora with its medicinal herbs and of course we will get familiar with the history and culture of Andros. Yes, hiking in Greece can be so rewarding!

Level of difficulty

Moderate

Level requirements

Relatively easy hikes and activities for beginners (3 – 4 hours per day), good start for a first outdoor holiday. The walking is on a mixture of dirt tracks and well – constructed stone mule paths. Our trips are designed for active people who enjoy energetic days. We expect participants to be in good physical condition.

Itinerary

Day 1Arrival day

Arrival day and check-in at our accommodation in Andros Town (“Chora”). Welcome drinks and Greek ‘mezes’ in the evening, first meeting with a little talk and briefing about the program.

Day 2Chora - Apikia - Chora

Our first hiking day and we are all excited! After we enjoy our healthy breakfast from Greek products, we are good to go! Discover the unique nature of the island, walk across the riverbed, visit old castle-houses, stone bridges, watermills, traditional olive presses, impressive old mansions and finally reach one of the island’s most important wetlands. En route we will enjoy our delicious picnic lunch. Return to Chora for our overnight. (B,L)
Hiking distance: 12 km / Duration: around 5hours

Day 3Chora - Menites - Panachradou Monastery - Chora

From Andros Town we walk to the abundant springs of Menites via an excellent footpath. Our exploration of this part of the island will take us through the settlement of Messaria, the old Byzantine center of Andros. After a short rest and picnic lunch we continue until we reach the Panachrantou Monastery (alt. 500 m), a living historical and architectural monument. (B,L)
Hiking distance: 15 km / Duration: Approximately 5,5 hrs.

Day 4Chora - Korthi

Today we will follow the old highway from Chora to Korthi, which was the central agricultural and commercial artery for south-eastern Andros until 1950. Explore the most important structures in Dipotamata gorge, the watermills, constituting the basis of an open air eco-museum!! Passing through the picturesque village of Kochylou we arrive at Korthi village. (B,L)
Hiking distance: 11 km / Duration: About 4,5 hrs

Day 5Free day

A free day! You may spend it any way you like. Walk around on your own, swim, sunbathe, relax, go shopping or arrange your own tour to some of the many interesting sites of the island. Our team of guides re available for you, if you decide to ask for their assistance. A cooking workshop, a Taichi or Qigong class, a Yoga class, a fitness program or maybe a guided bike tour, a diving class or any other water sports activities may be easily arranged on site (only upon your request). You could also let yourself be treated by the experienced hands of our massage therapists. (B)

Day 6Batsi - Pitrofos

After our mighty breakfast we will be hiking into the wild! The cobblestone paths are indeed man-made works of art, harmonious to the environment and spread all over the island!. The longest route in the network follows the old trail, which connected southwest Andros to the central villages and Chora. A worthwhile stop will take place for a visit to Dimitris Chelmis renovated olive press. Lunch at the picturesque village of Pitrofos, a “gastronomic journey” with Katerina Remoundou and her special dishes of fine Greek cuisine ! Free evening. (B,L)
Hiking distance: 12 km / Duration: around 4 hrs.